If you’re reading this, then we are clearly kindred fashion-loving spirits. It can often feel like an expensive passion, and sometimes that irresistible jacket or new pair of boots creates more stress than satisfaction. The beautiful thing? Looking gorgeous is completely possible without making your bank account balance cringe-worthy.

If you have any ideas of your own, please share them with us! We love new tips on how to look beautiful… Frugally.

Don’t Go Trendy – Go Timeless

As much as that pair of harem pants or that peplum shirt might be calling your name this season, chances are that they’ll be relegated to the back of your closet before the end of the year. Instead of succombing to fast fashion, invest in pieces that are timeless. It’s okay to spend a little bit extra on something that you’ll wear for years to come… But make sure that it’s an item that will outlive trends. A good rule of thumb? Before you swipe your card, step back and ask yourself: “Will I be wearing this a year from now?” If the answer’s no, step away and save yourself some money.

Forget Full-Price

As a general rule of thumb, you should never pay full price for any item – no matter how much you love it. Nine times out of ten, it will go on sale within a few months. Be patient and check in frequently to see whether the hosting store or website is offering any coupons or promotions (hint: Hukkster is a great way to stay in-the-know on when your favorite items go on sale!).

Fall in Love with Pre-Loved

If you have an eye for the finer things, you don’t have to be limited by your budget. Shop for pre-loved items to enjoy the looks you love at a fraction of the cost. An added bonus? Every time you visit Rags Exchange, it feels like a treasure hunt: You never know what gems you’ll discover.

Plan a Fashion-Friendly Party

Combine two of your favorite things (fashion and friends, of course) and host a clothing swap party! Clean out your closet and get some fun new additions… without taking out your wallet once. Invite friends to bring along five items that they no longer wear, and encourage them to bring along unwanted jewelry and accessories as well. Clothing swap parties are fun because it offers the chance to play dress-up and head home with some new staples for your closet!

Using these tips, you can look gorgeous without putting a dent in your wallet. Fashion should be fun, inspiring, and exciting… And never stressful. Try these out and let us know which suggestions worked best for you!